A 94-year-old man from Enfield, north London, has taken a stand against age-related driving restrictions, stating he is willing to undergo new tests to demonstrate his driving capability. Brad Ashton, who has been driving since he passed his test in 1947, believes that age alone should not dictate a person’s ability to drive safely.
Ashton expressed his views during an interview with The i Paper, emphasizing his reliance on his car due to limited public transport options in his area. He noted, “I would be lost without my car. The bus service is infrequent, and we live quite a distance from the local shops.” His wife, Valerie Ashton, suffers from ataxia, a condition that affects her balance, making their vehicle essential for daily activities.
Having never received a speeding fine in his long driving history, Ashton feels confident in his skills. “I think I am safer than many teenagers who have just passed their tests,” he remarked, asserting that his experience and caution on the road make him a competent driver. He added, “I don’t feel I should ever be banned from driving because of my age.”
New Driving Regulations for Older Motorists
Ashton’s statements come as the UK government announces potential changes to driving regulations for older motorists. These updates are part of a broader road safety strategy, marking the most significant reforms since the Road Safety Act 2006. Proposed measures include mandatory eyesight tests for drivers over the age of 70, a demographic that is required to renew their driving licenses every three years.
If enacted, those who fail these tests could face bans from driving. Ashton, who undergoes eyesight checks every six months, stated that he is willing to participate in new assessments to prove his fitness to drive. “If they want me to do a test tomorrow, I will gladly do it,” he said, underscoring his determination to continue driving as long as he is capable.
Government statistics reveal that drivers under the age of 25, who represent just 6% of license holders, were involved in 24% of fatal and serious crashes in 2024. This data raises questions about the focus on older drivers, who are often perceived as less safe.
Concerns from Advocacy Groups
The proposed reforms have drawn criticism from advocacy groups. Dennis Reed, director of Silver Voices, expressed concerns regarding the lack of evidence supporting the age threshold for mandatory eye tests. He questioned why the age was set at 70, suggesting it could be adjusted to 60, 80, or even 90. Reed highlighted that older drivers are often more careful than their younger counterparts, who may be more prone to risky behavior.
He also raised practical issues surrounding the implementation of the tests, including the capacity of the current system to handle millions of assessments in a short timeframe. “The NHS is already struggling to carry out timely glaucoma and cataract testing,” Reed pointed out, emphasizing the potential consequences for older drivers who rely on their vehicles for mobility.
As discussions continue, Ashton remains firm in his belief that age should not be the sole factor in assessing a driver’s ability. With a lifelong passion for driving and a commitment to safety, he hopes to change perceptions about older motorists. “I intend to carry on driving until I am as old as my jokes,” he quipped, reflecting his spirited approach to life and driving at 94.
